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When and how to apply for a home loan

Home buyers need to consider the timing of their home loan application, and it it’s worth getting in early.

• Start your home loan conversations as soon as you start thinking about buying a home.
• Avoid extra stress and be ready to make an offer by getting a home loan pre-approval.
• There’s a few methods for applying for a home loan, see our guide to help you choose. 

When should you apply for a home loan?

It’s important to consider how long it takes to get a home loan, and the stages of the process. However, as a rule of thumb, if you’re starting to look at properties, you should begin your application process and at least obtain an approval-in-principle beforehand (also known as pre-approval or conditional approval)^#.

Waiting until you find a property before applying for your home loan runs the risk of missing out on your dream home. If you suddenly find a property you’ve fallen in love with and haven’t obtained your approval, there are some things to consider, such as:

• You won’t know how much you can comfortably offer on the property.
• It creates time pressure to collect the right supporting documentation.
• There’s no guarantee the lender can process and verify your documentation in time.
• You could risk losing a deposit paid. 
• It can increase stress levels during a high-pressure decision.

The best thing to do is to speak to a lender as soon as you start thinking about buying a home. That way, you’ll know the answer to the all-important-question; how much can I borrow?

Our lending experts will be there to help at every step of your journey, from saving for a deposit, to helping you to apply for a home loan, through to getting the keys and making the most of your new home loan.

Ways to apply for a home loan

When you’re ready to apply for a home loan, there are a number of methods you can go about applying, and you might not always know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the various methods so you can choose the best one to suit you.

Mobile Lender

Mobile lenders are exactly how they sound, they’re mobile, and they’re lending experts. The best part about mobile lenders is that they can come to you, at work or at home, at a time that suits you, to talk about all things home loans. 

This is a great option for borrowers who are looking to take the hassle out of the application process and can’t find the time to drop into an office or call. Mobile lenders are your one-stop-shop for getting a home loan. Just complete a quick postcode search below to find out who your local mobile lender is.

If you’re area doesn’t have a mobile lender don’t worry, we have lending experts ready to answer your questions and take your home loan application over the phone.

In Branch/Office

Visiting your local branch or office is a great option as you’ll be able to have most of your banking needs fulfilled, as well as speak with a lending expert. At a branch or office, you’ll be able to speak with a member of our team about any of your accounts, or services we offer. What’s more, you can enjoy free WiFi. 

You’ll have all of the great benefits of the Mobile Lenders, only that you’ll need to visit during business hours. Our in-branch lending experts take appointments and walk-ins, but it’s best to call ahead so you’re not left waiting. 

See our locations and opening hours

Online

Applying for a home loan online is a great option if you’re a self-starter and know what you’re after. The online application is simple, and only takes about 20 minutes to complete.

After you’ve hit submit on your application you’ll get an email confirmation, and hear from a lending expert within 2 business days. When they call, they’ll confirm any further requirements you might have and let you know the documentation you’ll need to provide to support your application.

Apply online

Over the Phone

Our Lending Managers in our Lending Solutions Centre are ready to answer any of your queries and take your home loan application over the phone, so you don’t have to worry about filling out an application. They’ll ask you some pretty detailed questions, so it’s good to be prepared before you call.

You’ll be allocated a Lending Manager for the entire home for loan process, so you don’t need to worry about explaining your situation multiple times.

Just contact us and follow the prompts for ‘new loans’. Our lending managers are available 8am to 7pm, weekdays and 9am to 3pm, Saturday. They can even call you—just submit your details.